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A review by literarypenguin
The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
“Brave doesn’t mean you’re not scared, Starr,” she says. “It means you go on even though you’re scared. And you’re doing that.”
There comes a time when you find that one book, that rare unknown creature that is both important and well written, a book that is not afraid to talk about a subject that really needs to be talked about. A subject that is more relevant now than it has ever been before.
The Hate U Give is that book.
I absolutely adored this book. In my opinion it doesn’t have a single flaw. Every topic in the book was approachable, well written, and did not pull any punches. It stands out amongst most YA, and is a very diverse read.
Starr Carter is one of the most authentic, resilient, and strong characters I have ever read in a book. While she is not completely fearless, she embraces the adversity in her own way and overcomes it. She is such an inspiration to young girls looking to find their voice. I don’t know too many people who can juggle so many stresses in their life and come out on the other side unscathed. It was such a pleasure watching this girl grow and evolve into the strong, capable young woman we all knew she would become. I was so proud of this girl by the end.
Another part of this book I loved was the family dynamic. I think it is one of the healthiest, closest, realistic families I have ever read. The siblings might fight each other, but they always have each others backs. The parents may argue and bicker back and forth, but that doesn’t erase the deep and emotional love they have for one another. They always do what’s best for their children, even when it goes against their own personal beliefs. It was just so wholesome to see a scene with the family sitting around the dinner table or watching a sports game together or having a birthday pool party. It is one of my favorite parts of this book.
One of the strongest aspects of this novel is the social commentary and political criticism. This book is the kind of book everybody should read. It can make them aware of the current issues, encourage them to make a change whether in their neighborhood or world wide, and educate people on pressing matters. It invites people to think about important questions about racism, discrimination, police brutality, and prejudice. It was interesting how the author integrated such a important movement into her book and made it accessible for teens. Hopefully this novel will bring positive attention to the movement and will serve to educate others about the cause.
I hope one thing people will take away from this is just how truly powerful and important ones voice can be. Although it might not seem like it in the moment, all the world needs is just one voice to speak up and speak for those who sometimes can’t speak. Starr is the perfect example of a person who at first is scared to speak up, but she soon learns how important it is to speak about things you are passionate about. No matter how terrifying the consequences might seem, it is always important to speak your mind.
I can not recommend this book enough. If you want a entertaining story, with heart and powerful message. Then read The Hate U Give. You won’t regret it trust me.
‘Sometimes you can do everything right and things will still go wrong. The key is to never stop doing right.’”
There comes a time when you find that one book, that rare unknown creature that is both important and well written, a book that is not afraid to talk about a subject that really needs to be talked about. A subject that is more relevant now than it has ever been before.
The Hate U Give is that book.
I absolutely adored this book. In my opinion it doesn’t have a single flaw. Every topic in the book was approachable, well written, and did not pull any punches. It stands out amongst most YA, and is a very diverse read.
Starr Carter is one of the most authentic, resilient, and strong characters I have ever read in a book. While she is not completely fearless, she embraces the adversity in her own way and overcomes it. She is such an inspiration to young girls looking to find their voice. I don’t know too many people who can juggle so many stresses in their life and come out on the other side unscathed. It was such a pleasure watching this girl grow and evolve into the strong, capable young woman we all knew she would become. I was so proud of this girl by the end.
Another part of this book I loved was the family dynamic. I think it is one of the healthiest, closest, realistic families I have ever read. The siblings might fight each other, but they always have each others backs. The parents may argue and bicker back and forth, but that doesn’t erase the deep and emotional love they have for one another. They always do what’s best for their children, even when it goes against their own personal beliefs. It was just so wholesome to see a scene with the family sitting around the dinner table or watching a sports game together or having a birthday pool party. It is one of my favorite parts of this book.
One of the strongest aspects of this novel is the social commentary and political criticism. This book is the kind of book everybody should read. It can make them aware of the current issues, encourage them to make a change whether in their neighborhood or world wide, and educate people on pressing matters. It invites people to think about important questions about racism, discrimination, police brutality, and prejudice. It was interesting how the author integrated such a important movement into her book and made it accessible for teens. Hopefully this novel will bring positive attention to the movement and will serve to educate others about the cause.
I hope one thing people will take away from this is just how truly powerful and important ones voice can be. Although it might not seem like it in the moment, all the world needs is just one voice to speak up and speak for those who sometimes can’t speak. Starr is the perfect example of a person who at first is scared to speak up, but she soon learns how important it is to speak about things you are passionate about. No matter how terrifying the consequences might seem, it is always important to speak your mind.
I can not recommend this book enough. If you want a entertaining story, with heart and powerful message. Then read The Hate U Give. You won’t regret it trust me.
‘Sometimes you can do everything right and things will still go wrong. The key is to never stop doing right.’”
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child death, Death, Gun violence, Hate crime, Murder, Police brutality, and Racism
Moderate: Domestic abuse, Drug use, and Racial slurs
Minor: Vomit